The St. John Council (#3738) of the Knights of Columbus has donated 225 hams to local food pantries to help them serve local families over the holidays. The Knights gave 75 hams each to the Holy Trinity Parish food pantry in Westmont, the St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Mary of Gostyn Parish in Downers Grove, and the People’s Resource Center in Westmont.

“Poverty and need have been increasing among our neighbors,” said Hank Anzelone, a member of the council and a volunteer at the People’s Resource Center. “Since July, 2008, the number of families receiving food each month at the Center has increased from less than 300 to nearly 900. Our larger site in Wheaton serves nearly 3,000 families. I’m proud of all our neighbors who unselfishly donate to us, to allow us to help so many.”

“We are able to help because of the generosity of our neighbors in supporting our general fundraising activities,” said Rick Vath, Grand Knight of Council 3738. “As Knights, we seek to promote charitable and social welfare works both among our members and in our communities.” General fundraising activities of the council include charitable gaming, social events, and concessions at local festivals.

The Knights of Columbus, the world’s largest Catholic family fraternal service organization, has 1.8 million members in more than 14,000 councils. The St. John Council has approximately 350 members in Westmont, Downers Grove, and surrounding communities.